Cone & Graham, Inc. completed the construction of the West Fork Horse Creek Elevated Crossing No. 2 at Mosaic’s Ona Mine in Hardee County, Florida. This project provided a critical vehicular crossing within an active mining operation, designed to maintain operational continuity while meeting strict environmental and safety requirements.

The elevated crossing consists of a prestressed Florida I-beam vehicular bridge supported by driven concrete piles, along with associated substructure and superstructure components. The project also included construction of approach roadways, embankments, and delineator berms to integrate the crossing with existing mine operations. Additional infrastructure elements included installation of HDPE drainage systems, steel casing supports, and riprap armoring for slope and scour protection .

Given the project’s location within West Fork Horse Creek and an environmentally sensitive corridor, Cone & Graham implemented comprehensive erosion and sedimentation control measures throughout construction. These included turbidity barriers, silt fencing, and stormwater management practices designed to protect water quality and comply with regulatory requirements. All work was performed in accordance with FDOT standards and Mosaic environmental guidelines.

Construction activities were carefully sequenced to align with mine operations and regulatory constraints, including seasonal restrictions on in-creek work. The project also required strict adherence to MSHA safety standards, with all personnel completing specialized training prior to mobilization.

The successful delivery of the West Fork Horse Creek Elevated Crossing enhances operational efficiency at the Ona Mine while providing a durable, engineered solution capable of withstanding the demands of heavy industrial use and challenging environmental conditions.